Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is one of the top five non-surgical procedures performed worldwide for facial rejuvenation. While microdermabrasion has been around for several decades, newer technologies and improvements upon the original systems have developed machines that are more effective, more controllable, and use safer crystals for the skin. Original machines used aluminum oxide crystals, which made the skin red and were harmful if ingested or breathed into the lungs. While these types of machines still exist, our spa uses a machine with baking soda crystals, which have the same results and effects as traditional aluminum oxide, but without any of the side effects or dangers.

What is microdermabrasion and what does it do?

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive mechanical exfoliation skin treatment without chemicals that removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells from the treated area. Mechanical exfoliation with small baking soda particles propelled at high speeds across the skin's surface, along with adjustable vacuum pressure and mild suction, allows for safe, controlled exfoliation of the top layers of the epidermis. The result is an increase in blood flow and circulation throughout the treated area, stimulating cell renewal and collagen production.

What areas are treated with microdermabrasion?

Most patients have microdermabrasion done to the face; however, the neck and chest are also often done. Although microdermbrasion treatments are most often done on their own, a mini version of the treatment can also be done before a FotoFacial or laser treatment to enhance results, which can be especially beneficial for those with deep browns and melasma, as the microdermabrasion removes thin layers allowing the FotoFacial or laser to penetrate more deeply.

What is a microdermabrasion treatment like?

To perform a microdermabrasion treatment, your technician begins with a deep cleasing of the skin. Then a SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque is applied for a few minutes to pull out any impurities and decongest pores, while a deep massage is done to your face, neck, and arms. Next the microdermabrasion treatment is done to the treated area which takes about 15 minutes for a full face. Most people describe the treatment like a light exfoliation that feels like a cat's tongue. After this step is completed, topical vitamins and minerals will be applie. Finally sunscreen is applied to the treated area. A full microdermabrsion treatment takes about 50-60 minutes.

What kind of results can i expect from microdermabrasion?

You should not expect significant resutls from a microdermabrasion. Often, microdermabrasion is improperly sold as a treatment to remove lines, wrinkles, and acne scarring. While some of these may be helped a bit with microdermabrasion, signficant results should not be promised with these types of treatments, as the crystals barely affect the epidermis of the skin and no ablation of the skin occurs. Microdermabrasion should be viewed as a polishing, exfoliating treatment only. After a microdermabrasion treatment your skin should appear healthier and well-hydrated. These treatments are good to do before a big event, as they will make the skin look renewed and fresh. If you are doing these treatments in a series, you should expect to do them about once every 3-4 weeks, but because the machine is so gentle, you can truly have them done as often as you'd like.

How much does a microdermabrasion treatment cost?

Microdermabrasion treatments (50-60 minutes) are $125 per treatment. Discounts are offered for packages of 5 or 10. To add microdermabrasion as a pre-treatment for IPL/FotoFacial, prices begin at $30. Our prices are based upon our technicians' high level of experience, the care you receive, our value-added benefits, the direct supervision of a Board-certified dermatologist, and the consumable costs for our treatments. While other offices may offer different pricing structures, we are confident that you will not receive the same level of care from any other facility.